British Muslims take a stand against rise in anti-semitism

British Muslims take a stand against rise in anti-semitism

By staff writers

16 Jan 2009

Twenty-two prominent British Muslims have signed a joint letter denouncing anti-semitic attacks and calling for continued vigilance against anti-Jewish attacks.

Some of the UK's leading Muslim intellectuals, imams, writers, community activists and leaders are involved. The message has been sent today, to coincide with Friday prayers, to nearly a thousand British mosques.

Anti-racism campaigners say that there has been a noticeable increase in attacks or insults against Jewish people over the last few weeks. The trend has also been noticeable in other parts of Europe.

The appeal is also being publicised in newspapers, on blogs and websites.

The full letter and signatories is as follows:

In the name of God, most compassionate, most merciful,

Dear Fellow Muslims,

We are deeply saddened to hear about antisemitic assaults on British Jews, and a recent arson attack on a London synagogue. Although the perpetrators are yet unknown, we unreservedly condemn attacks on innocent British citizens and the desecration of all places of worship.

The ongoing killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza by Israeli forces has angered us all.

However, this does not, and cannot, justify attacks on our fellow citizens of Jewish faith and background here in Britain.

Most Muslims are completely against such behaviour. However, we call on all Muslims to continue to remain vigilant against attempts to bring our own faith and community into disrepute. British Jews should not be held responsible for the actions of the Israeli
government.